Peppard are forced to call it a day

PEPPARD have been forced to admit defeat and have withdrawn from the Hellenic League for the 2002/03 campaign.

The Oxon side, one of the most successful sides in the Reading area over the past 20 years, were rocked a fortnight ago when manager Colin Millard handed in his resignation and moved to Combined Counties League outfit Reading Town.

He took with him his backroom staff and, after hearing the news, an investor who had pledged substantial financial support to bolster the club's flagging coffers withdrew his offer completely.

That left Peppard's infrastructure completely demolished and, after holding an extraordinary general meeting at their Bishopswood base this week, the vote was taken to suspend playing activities for the season.

The Hellenic League chairman, Michael Broadley, travelled from his home at Denham, addressed the meeting, then the committee were left to consider the future of the club.

The loss of a financial backer, who would have secured Peppard's immediate future was a body blow, as the club have insufficient monies to cover outgoings, even allowing for the kind offers of loans by two life members to enable the club to play another full season.

Therefore the vote was taken to withdraw from the league - and a substantial fine can be expected.

Oxfordshire FA have also been informed of the decision, although the club's name will be kept alive by annual registration and payment of a fee. This situation will be reviewed each summer.

General interest in the club has diminished in recent times, evidenced by falling attendances and the number of experienced administrators who have walked away from the club.

They left a dwindling committee of six hard-working stalwarts who have striven manfully to keep Peppard alive as part of the senior football scene, often battling against heavy odds.